Ever wonder what the most expensive camping tent in the world is? Well, you’re in the right place, we found it. When you get bored on lockdown you start researching the oddest things. So friends, settle in, break out the credit card and let us introduce you to the Mountain Hardwear Space Station Dome Tent, the most expensive camping tent in the world.
Mountain Hardwear Space Station Dome Tent
So, what does the most expensive camping tent in the world cost? A cool $6,000 will land you the Space Station Dome Tent. The folks over at Mountain Hardwear took no shortcuts with this tent. The Space Station Dome Tent gives an initial appearance as well, you guess it, a space-like moon base of a tent. How in the world did this get designed and for what reason is this tent 10 times more expensive than the most modern quality tents from NEMO, The North Face, and Marmot?
Quick Look at Specifications
With over 280 square feet of floor space, this tent is marketed as being able to hold over 20 people with a standing room and up to 15 people for sleeping.
- Approx. Weight Packed*: 85 lb 13.5 oz / 38938 g
- Approx. Weight Minimum*: 77 lb 15.9 oz / 35376 g
- Tent Capacity: 15 Person
- Number of Poles: 15
- Number of Doors: 3
- Height Interior: 101 in / 256.5 cm
- Tent Floor Area: 284 sq. ft. / 26.3 m2
- Tent Packed Size: 21″ x 36″ / 53.5 cm x 91.5 cm
What Makes The MH Space Station Dome Tent So Expensive?
At first glance, just the sheer size, weight and overall mass of this tent definitely play into the heftier price as it needs more fabrics, zippers and rods. Beyond that, what really makes the space station dome tent so expensive? To start, there are some slight upgrades like the DAC J-Stakes, UVX windows as well as Silicone and PU coatings which are a nice step up to protect from moisture. But, beyond, the biggest expense I found was the use of the DAC Aluminium pressfit tent poles which are a huge upgrade and extremely durable when compared to most camping tents. Fabric used in the Mountain Hardwear Space Station is the nylon taffeta, a lightweight yet, extremely durable fabric.
Who Is The Mountain Hardwear Space Station Tent For?
When the Space Station Dome Tent was designed, the staff over at Mountain Hardwear had the “base camp” crowd in mind. This is the type of tent that gets set up in a remote location and is built to last for a long time as more of a command center tent then an actual “camping” tent, think more along the lines of a climbing team as it is a true 4-season tent.
Because this tent weighs in at a whopping 84lbs, it’s not exactly a “pack-in” type of tent. Anyone who plans on using this likely has this as a part of a bigger alpine operation. The following types of events would benefit from using the Space Station tent:
- Winter Sports Events Logistics Teams
- Search and Rescue Agencies
- Climbing Teams
- Biologist and Scientist
- Arctic Researchers
Aside from these examples, the Mountain Hardwear could be used by anyone looking to host or care for several people, teams or even group camp chow or medic stations.
Why Not Just Get A Cheaper Canvas Wall Tent?
Well, at first glance that’s a great idea, however, a canvas wall tent gets its name due to the fact that the tent literally has vertical canvas walls that will not be able to withstand the high winds of alpine environments. The dome design of the Space Station Tent will absolutely be the type of dome design needed for alpine operations.
Additionally, the folks over at Mountain Hardwear sport one of the better warranties in the game. With a lifetime warranty, the space station is in good hands should there be any issues with quality or craftsmanship. Specifically, the Mountain hardwear warranty states:
Mountain Hardwear Limited Lifetime Warranty
What Does the Mountain Hardwear Limited Lifetime Warranty Cover?
Mountain Hardwear’s Limited Lifetime Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the practical lifetime of Mountain Hardwear brand products manufactured by Mountain Hardwear or its affiliates. Only original, unaltered, and unmodified materials and workmanship are covered by their policy. The limited lifetime warranty does not cover damage caused by normal wear and tear, improper care, misuse, accident, neglect, or the natural breakdown of materials over time. Products should be returned to Mountain Hardwear for evaluation. Items with defects in materials and workmanship will be repaired or a Virtual Merchandise Credit will be issued. Damages due to improper care or accident may be repaired at a reasonable rate. This policy is applicable to United States customers only. You can read more from Mountain Hardwear here.
Conclusion
Well, this was an interesting find, and to be frank, it’s likely a very good buy for true alpine excursions. Will I be getting one? Nope, my adventures are out of my truck or van and require only a mountain bike, some Colorado green goodies, and friends and family. However, if you are the true hardcore alpine teamsters, this is the tent you want for base camp. However, if this isn’t in your budget and you still need a good winter tent, check out our guide the Best 4-Season Tents, trust me, they are all MUCH more affordable.